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In this timely collection of essays, leading economic and communication scholars examine major policy issues confronting federal and state regulators in the telecommunications industry. The essays describe how past regulatory decisions have contributed to a growing tension between emerging competition and the preservation of specific social objectives like the continuance of universal service, and thus provide a unique perspective on the current public policy debates. Although each author discusses a different policy issue, the common theme in this volume is the compelling argument that past regulatory decisions, which were often motivated by political compromises rather than sound economic analysis, are the primary source of inefficiency that exists in the telecommunications industry today.
This insight points to potential harm that legislators may create from ignoring economic forces when deregulating an industry. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 is an example in which deregulation has created more, not less, regulatory barriers affecting competitors. The authors challenge policy makers to consider no regulation to insure that competitive forces determine prices, quantities, and quality of service for the vast array of telecommunication services available in today's marketplace.
List of contents
Introduction by Donald L. Alexander
Is It Time to Eliminate Telephone Regulation? by Robert W. Crandall
Telecommunications and Economic Development: A U.S. Perspective by Frederick Williams
Is the "Public Interest" in the Public Interest?: The Broadcast License Bargain of 1927 by Thomas W. Hazlett
The PCS Spectrum Auctions: An Early Assessment by Peter C. Cramton
The Quest for Universal Telephone Service: The Misfortunes of a Misshapen Policy by David L. Kaserman and John W. Mayo
Price Caps in the U.S. Telephone Industry: How Real is Reform? by Ronald R. Braeutigam
Index
About the author
The author of "Picatrix" was likely a highly educated and intellectually versatile scholar, deeply rooted in the Arabic-speaking world of the 11th century. He was well-versed in a variety of disciplines, including astrology, alchemy, and philosophy, drawing on Greek, Persian, and Indian sources. As a participant in the Islamic Golden Age's rich scholarly tradition, he likely had access to extensive libraries and intellectual circles. His work suggests a blend of academic knowledge and practical application, indicating both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience in astrological and magical practices.
